Morocco Eliminates the Netherlands from the 2026 World Cup in a Penalty Shootout

Round of 32 Match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

According to Главком: On June 30, 2026, at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey, Mexico, Morocco faced the Netherlands in a Round of 32 clash during the 2026 World Cup. After regulation time ended in a 1-1 draw, Morocco triumphed 3-2 in the penalty shootout, securing their spot in the Round of 16.

Group Stage Performances

Both teams entered the match with strong showings in the group stage. The Netherlands began their campaign with a 2-2 draw against Japan, with goals from Virgil van Dijk and Crysencio Summerville. They then secured a commanding 5-1 victory over Sweden, featuring braces from Brian Brobbey and Cody Gakpo, plus a goal from Summerville. In their final group match, the Dutch defeated Tunisia 3-1, with goals from Brobbey, Matijs van Ginkel, and an own goal by Ali Skhiri.

Morocco also navigated the group stage successfully. They started with a 1-1 draw against Brazil, where Ismael Saibari scored. Next, they edged Scotland 1-0 with another Saibari goal, and finished by beating Haiti 4-2, with goals from Achraf Hakimi, Saibari, Ayoub Rahimi, and Yassine.

In the knockout match, the Netherlands broke the deadlock in the 72nd minute through Cody Gakpo. However, Morocco equalized in stoppage time (90+1 minute) with a goal from Diop. The 1-1 scoreline held through extra time, leading to penalties, where Morocco prevailed 3-2. They will now face Canada in the Round of 16.

Ronald Koeman manages the Netherlands, while Mohamed Ouhbi leads Morocco.

This victory marks a historic milestone for Morocco, as it is the first time the team has advanced to the Round of 16 in a World Cup. Their progress reflects the growing strength of football in the country. For the Netherlands, the loss is a major disappointment, given their status as tournament favorites, and manager Ronald Koeman will need to reassess his strategy for future competitions.

The victory over the Netherlands is a significant achievement for Morocco, especially following their earlier triumph against Haiti. In that match, Morocco showcased their offensive prowess with a 4-2 win, reflecting their growing confidence in the tournament. For a deeper look at how Morocco secured their position in the knockout stage, check out the details of their impressive performance against Haiti here.